IBC Tanks & Totes
Intermediate Bulk Containers for storing and moving liquids and bulk materials. Request a quote and partner suppliers in our network follow up.
Request an IBC Tank Quote
Tell us the size, grade and quantity you need
What is an IBC Tank?
An Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC), also called an IBC tote or tank, is a reusable industrial container for bulk liquids and granulated materials. It fills the gap between drums and tanker trucks.
A composite IBC has a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) inner bottle inside a galvanized steel cage, mounted on a pallet base so a forklift can move it.
A 275-gallon IBC holds as much as five 55-gallon drums on roughly the footprint of a 48" x 40" pallet, which saves handling and floor space.
IBC Components
Knowing the parts helps you choose a tote and spot what may need replacing
Inner Bottle
Blow-molded HDPE, which resists many chemicals. Natural and black (UV-protected) bottles are common.
Steel Cage
Galvanized steel tubing that protects the bottle during handling and lets you see the fill level.
Pallet Base
Wood, steel or plastic, so the tote can be moved with standard forklift equipment.
Discharge Valve
Usually a 2" or 3" butterfly or ball valve at the bottom. Valves can be replaced.
Top Lid
A screw cap with a gasket closes the fill opening. Vented caps are available.
Label Plate
Shows the manufacturer, date of manufacture and, where it has one, the UN marking.
Used IBC Grades
Grade names differ between suppliers. Ask the supplier who quotes you what their grade means and what the tote held before.
Rebottled
A new inner bottle in a used cage. The contact surface has not held another product.
Washed
A used tote rinsed or washed after its last use.
Unwashed
Sold as it came out of service, usually for buyers who clean totes themselves.
Industrial
Working totes with cosmetic wear or staining, often for water, waste or general storage.
IBC Sizes
275 Gallons (1,040 L)
The most common size, on a footprint close to a 48" x 40" pallet.
330 Gallons (1,250 L)
The same footprint as a 275-gallon tote, but taller.
Common Applications
Industrial Liquids
Cleaning compounds, lubricants, oils, paints and coatings.
Agriculture
Liquid fertilizers and other farm liquids.
Water
Rainwater collection, irrigation and general water storage.
IBC Tank FAQs
How many times can an IBC be reused?
It depends on the contents, handling and condition. Rules on how long a tote may be used for hazardous materials vary, so check current regulations for your use.
Can a used IBC hold food or drinking water?
Only if it is suitable for that use, which depends on its previous contents and its bottle. Ask the supplier for the tote history and check current regulations before food or potable-water use.
What does the UN marking mean?
A UN marking on the label plate shows the tote was tested for transporting certain hazardous materials. Check the marking on the unit and current regulations before shipping hazardous goods.
Is there a minimum order?
Minimums are set by each supplier. Tell us your quantity in the form and the supplier will say what they can do.
Ready to Request IBC Totes?
The quote request is free and carries no obligation.